Leeds school's tribute to fallen heroes

YOUNG actors donned World War One uniforms as part of Horsforth School's commemoration of the centenary of battle of the Somme
By The Newsroom
Published 7th Jul 2016, 08:39 BST
Updated 7th Jul 2016, 10:42 BST
Horsforth School drama students who take part in a play called 'The Pals' wore First World War uniforms during a visit to Horsforth Museum ahead of this Friday's 100th anniversary of the first day of the Battle of the Somme. Pictured Ethan Wright (right) and Joe Moss. Picture : Jonathan GawthorpeHorsforth School drama students who take part in a play called 'The Pals' wore First World War uniforms during a visit to Horsforth Museum ahead of this Friday's 100th anniversary of the first day of the Battle of the Somme. Pictured Ethan Wright (right) and Joe Moss. Picture : Jonathan Gawthorpe
Horsforth School drama students who take part in a play called 'The Pals' wore First World War uniforms during a visit to Horsforth Museum ahead of this Friday's 100th anniversary of the first day of the Battle of the Somme. Pictured Ethan Wright (right) and Joe Moss. Picture : Jonathan Gawthorpe

Year ten students Ethan Wright and Joe Moss attended a special opening of Horsforth Museum, which is staging an extensive exhibition on the conflict.

Horsforth School drama teacher James Bovington is co-ordinating a range of events in connection with the centenary of the Battle of the Somme.

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Mr Bovington has written play called ‘The Pals’ which is set to be staged at the school on July 13 and 14.
Ethan Wright, who is playing soldier Walter Roberts in ‘The Pals’, said: “I was delighted to attend the special museum opening in uniform to allow people to find out more about the war and especially to think about the young soldiers who were just like us really, but who suffered a terrible fate. I hope lots of people will come to our play and get to know Walter, a friendly and cheeky lad who just wanted a bright future.”
Underage Horsforth soldier Frank Clarke was just 18 when he died from wounds suffered in battle on July 1 1916.
Joe Moss, who will play Frank Clarke in ‘The Pals’, said: “Ethan and I and ten others are looking forward to portraying soldiers like Frank Clarke who gave their lives while underage.

“We are pleased to have helped Horsforth Museum let more people know about Frank Clarke and the others, all of whom voluntarily gave their lives in our country’s service one beautiful but fateful July morning a century ago. It’s really made us think.’

Visitors were encouraged to sign the book of remembrance for the soldiers of the Somme and to see the Museum’s extensive World War One exhibition including the acclaimed ‘Homage to Alfred’ by Horsforth’s Kate Siddall.

Tickets for ‘The Pals’ play can be ordered from the school on 0113 226 5454 or email [email protected]

Related topics:LeedsHorsforth